Bellatrix

Hello, hello, hello! I am incredibly THRILLED to be writing the first blog post for Nova! It’s been a bit too quiet these past few days as us staff have been stocking the boats with food, preparing lessons, and eagerly awaiting the people who make the place…the students! Our new home, the lovely Bellatrix will soon be filled laughter, excitement, and a lifetime full of memories. We have many adventures in store for us such from sailing, snorkeling, birdwatching, watching dolphins on the bow and seeing some insane sunsets and sunrises. However, more than any postcard worthy moment, as a former GXG student myself, I can say that the truly life changing moments will be the little mundane ones that sneak up on you. Perhaps a ridiculous conversation in the dishy pit, or a dance party that delays dinner ever so slightly… regardless of the big moments and the little ones, us staff cannot wait to set sail!

Let me introduce the staff:
Joey our skipper!
Joey was born in Sacramento, California, but he discovered his passion for the water in Santa Barbara. He began with Opti regattas, progressed to the 420 division, and eventually moved into keelboat racing. His love for all things water-related has only grown over the years.
As a student with Seamester on S/Y Vela’s summer voyage from the Caribbean to Rome, Joey completed his PSCT theory and passed the Practical Exam for his Master of Yachts Offshore Sailing endorsement. He is beyond excited to spend the summer sailing around the British Virgin Islands with ActionQuest!

Hannah our mate/medic:
Hannah grew up in Jackson Hole Wyoming, where she spent most of her time skiing, backpacking, and exploring the outdoors. She is currently at CU Boulder where she is studying psychology with a focus in child studies and human development. Despite spending most of her time landlocked, Hannah has always deeply loved the ocean and all of its marine life. In 2024, she sailed with Seamester, on S/Y Argo. While crossing the Indian Ocean, her passion for sailing and the underwater world grew even more. Hannah has experience working at various different summer camps in the past and recently got her Wilderness First Responder certification. She can not wait for a summer full of sailing and diving in the BVI!